Personal Firewall Software acts as a barrier between your computer and the Internet, helping to block out viruses, worms, Trojans, and unauthorized access to your computer and files. There are 3 basic types of firewalls that are available for you to choose from: Software Firewall, Hardware Firewall and Wireless Firewall. Click HERE to determine which type of firewall is best for you.

3. - Windows Updates

It is essential to keep your computer's operating system and programs in top condition. That means keeping up with applying patches, hot fixes and Service Packs. Allow updates from Microsoft. If you don't obtain and install these updates your computer is vulnerable to attack and/or infection.

Your system CAN be infected with a virus even though you have installed anti-virus software and you update your software regularly. You can receive a virus through your email program even if you haven't opened an attachment. An email does not have to contain an attachment to contain a virus.

Viruses can be sent through the web, on a floppy disc, via FTP (file transfer protocol), through chat clients, p2p music file sharing programs and even by visiting web pages. They can even infect your computer through a security hole in a software package or your operating system (Windows). This is why performing all critical updates from Microsoft is imperative.

DO NOT open email attachments that you are not expecting - even if they come from someone you know. Disable the Preview Pane in your email client. With Microsoft Outlook and Outlook Express, previewing an email message may be enough to infect your system with a worm/virus. If you need help doing this, please contact Technical Support at 724/919-8643, we'd be glad to offer assistance.

5. - Run Disk Defragmenter at least once a month

Windows 7 automatically configures Disk Defrag to schedule defragment to run once a week, usually at 1am on Wednesday.